Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Indoors, they are commonly found in homes, museums, and warehouses. Outdoors, they are found on flowering plants.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on pollen and nectar; larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, feathers, fur, and dried animal or plant matter.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and are often seen near windows during the spring. They undergo complete metamorphosis from egg to larva to pupa to adult.

Risks & Benefits

They are a common household pest that can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, and upholstery. While they do not bite humans, larval hairs can cause allergic skin reactions or respiratory irritation in some people.

Identified on: 3/1/2026